Explore articles on the latest in Ontario real estate news with thoughtful insights from FairSquare Group Realty.

Ontario Real Estate
Ontario State of the Market Update: May 2022
OREA reported 19,279 home sales in May, continuing the downward trend month over month. Coupled with an increase in new listings and active listings, the market was driven further into balanced conditions, leading to a modest increase in average price year over over year of 9%.
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Ontario Real Estate
Good ’Hoods: Top Toronto Neighbourhoods for Families With Kids
In the city of Toronto, you’ll find a variety of smaller neighbourhoods especially attractive to families with kids. Of course, there are some perennial favourites that spring to mind, but we’re featuring three lesser-known options that have a plenty to offer you and your little ones. -
Ontario Real Estate
Ontario State of the Market Update: April 2022
OREA reported 20,021 home sales in April, which is typical volume for this time of year. Month over month, the market saw a decrease in sales after a hotter March market, down 18%. And even though there was more inventory in the market month over month, demand slowed in April. -
Ontario Real Estate
Ontario State of the Market Update: March 2022
The Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) reported 24,409 home sales in March, which marked the third best March ever recorded. Month over month, the market saw a significant increase in sales, up 26%! This sharp increase in sales is due to the dramatic increase of new listings. -
Ontario Real Estate
Ontario State of the Market Update: February 2022
February was a record-breaking month in Ontario! The average sale price of residential properties surpassed the $1M threshold, setting an all-time record. And month over month, the market saw a significant increase in sales, up 55%! -
Ontario Real Estate
Which Regions in Ontario Have Increased the Most in Price?
For many real estate investors and homeowners, the decision to purchase a property comes down to cost. So, you may be wondering: which cities within Ontario have experienced the largest increases to average sale price? -
Ontario Real Estate
Ontario State of the Market Update: January 2022
Even with a supply shortage in Ontario, the real estate market saw the second-best January on record when it comes to home sales. Buyer demand remains high, which led to sharp decreases in active and new listings. As a result, seller’s market conditions remain prevalent across the province. -
Ontario Real Estate
Most Affordable Cities in Ontario for First-Time Home Buyers in 2022
Where are the most affordable homes in Ontario? Using the affordability index, let’s look at the data across the province to help first-time home buyers plan an affordable purchase. -
Ontario Real Estate
Ontario State of the Market Update: December 2021
Home sales in Ontario were far above the 5-year average and the 10-year average for the month of December. However, sales still fell sharply compared to December 2020. Another new record was hit for the price of a resale home across the province as seller’s markets still run the province. -
Ontario Real Estate
2022 Canadian Real Estate Market Outlook
History is usually a trustworthy barometer. However, past years have included many unprecedented events which make predictions even tricker. The main question is: will the wave of Canadian real estate continue or crash in 2022? -
Ontario Real Estate
Ontario State of the Market Update: November 2021
The decline of Ontario year over year home sales activity halted in November and was at par with 2020 totals. The average price for a residential property reached a new record in November, as seller’s markets continue to dominate across the province. -
Ontario Real Estate
How can FairSquare Group Realty Charge So Little?
We are proud of our business model because it allows Canadians to list their homes, saving thousands in commission! FairSquare Group Realty (FairSquare) saved Canadian home sellers over $50M in 2020. -
Ontario Real Estate
The Legal Dos and Don’ts of Selling Your Home During a Divorce
If you and your soon-to-be ex own a home, selling could be the ticket to the next chapter in your story. We’ve prepared a quick guide on the legal dos and don’ts of selling your home during a divorce to help you know your rights, stay on course, and keep a cool head throughout the process. -
Ontario Real Estate
GTA First-Time Buyers: Should You Save Up for a Single-Family Home or Invest in a Condo Now?
A common question first-time home buyers ask themselves: Should I save up for a single-family home or invest in a condo now to break into the market sooner? Well, it’s helpful if you first understand down payment options, average prices, and affordability concerns when making the choice. -
Ontario Real Estate
Ontario State of the Market Update: October 2021
Ontario is still experiencing a substantial decline in sales activity compared to last year, as sales fell 13% year over year. Despite this, October still saw the second-best results for this month on record. Seller’s markets dominate regions across the province with record-low inventory numbers. -
Ontario Real Estate
Ontario State of the Market Update: September 2021
Despite dropping 21% from the same time last year, September home sales in Ontario reached the third best month in the province’s history. The seller’s market continues across the province, as new residential listings in September were at the lowest, we have seen in the last decade. -
Ontario Real Estate
7 Homes You Can Buy for the Average Home Price in the GTA (or Less!)
If you’ve been considering buying a home in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), you aren’t the only one. Experts predict tighter market conditions and population growth trending back to pre-COVID levels as we look towards 2022. -
Ontario Real Estate
Ontario Real Estate Market Update: August 2021
Despite the fall from last year’s record levels, August home sales in Ontario totaled the third-best month in history resulting in the average price of all homes increasing into the double-digits year over year. New and active listings are still at record lows, driving competitive conditions. -
Ontario Real Estate
Buying a rental property in college towns? What property investing could look like this September
We look at three university regions: Kitchener-Waterloo, Winnipeg, and Calgary. In this student housing market report, we assess each region based on housing demand and potential for growth important things to consider when selecting a university or college town to purchase an investment property -
Ontario Real Estate
Ontario Real Estate Market Update: July 2021
July marked a time to breathe for the entire Ontario real estate market. New listings haven’t been this low in the month of July for over a decade. Even with low levels of supply and reduced sale activity, this was still the fourth best July Ontario has ever experienced on record. -
Ontario Real Estate
Ontario Real Estate Market Update: June 2021
June was another hot month in Ontario real estate! Record levels of low supply didn’t stop Ontario from seeing the second-highest sales in the month of June on record. This helped keep average prices steady as buyers continued to snap up new listings. -
Ontario Real Estate
Ontario’s Average Home Price is $864,010 – Here’s What You Can Buy for That (and Less!)
After months of price growth across Ontario, the current average year-to-date price of a home is $864,010. We're showcasing stunning homes you can get for that and less across the province! -
Ontario Real Estate
Canada's 3 Least Affordable Cities (and How to Afford Buying a Home in One of Them)
We all know home prices have skyrocketed, but where do Canadians face the steepest entry to home ownership? Using the Desjardins Affordability Index (DAI), we’re taking a look at some of the highest-cost cities in Canada and some strategies to make buying a home in one of them a reality. -
Ontario Real Estate
Ontario Real Estate Market Update: May 2021
May was another hot month in Ontario real estate! Though market activity pulled back somewhat from the levels seen earlier in the year, strong buyer demand led to a new sales record for the month of May, and low supply levels are keeping prices high. -
Ontario Real Estate
Ontario Real Estate Market Update: April 2021
The Ontario real estate market continued its hot streak this April, despite a province-wide shutdown early in the month. A wave of new listings slowed declining inventory levels, but with strong sales trailing only the record-highs of March 2021, the seller’s market persists. -
Ontario Real Estate
Ontario Real Estate Market Update: March 2021
The Ontario real estate market shattered records this March as it launched into spring, undaunted by having to share the month with the arrival of the third wave. Despite an influx of new listings, strong sales are keeping inventory levels low and putting upward pressure on prices! -
Ontario Real Estate
Good ’Hoods: Best Toronto Neighbourhoods for Entrepreneurs
Planning to cultivate your million-dollar idea in Canada’s city of dreams? With a diverse population of over 2.9 million and resources for every stage of your startup journey, Toronto is a mecca for entrepreneurs. Here are our picks for the best Toronto neighbourhoods to set up shop! -
Ontario Real Estate
Good ’Hoods: Best Ottawa Neighbourhoods for Young Professionals
Moving to Ottawa to launch your career? You’ve probably heard of the city’s most coveted (and pricey!) real estate destinations, but here are three sweet spots in the nation’s capital that are becoming ever more desirable for young professionals! -
Ontario Real Estate
Ontario Real Estate Market Update: February 2021
Ontario’s major real estate markets continued their break-neck pace this February as bursts of new listings were snapped up by option-starved buyers. With the influx of supply bringing precious little relief to diminishing inventory levels, prices have continued to climb in almost every region. -
Ontario Real Estate
Good ’Hoods: Best Toronto Neighbourhoods for Real Estate Investors
Like many, you might be eyeing Toronto’s hot housing market wondering if now is the time to make your entry with an investment property. But what and where in these feverish markets should you consider buying? Here’s what we’ve found out. -
Ontario Real Estate
Should You Buy a Home in a Seller’s Market?
In the year since the pandemic halted the 2020 spring real estate market, record-breaking sales have pushed prices to soaring heights in many parts of the country, while inventory levels have dwindled. In seller’s markets like these, should you buy a home? Here’s what you need to consider. -
Ontario Real Estate
Ontario Real Estate Market Update: January 2021
Sales this January started 2021 on a high note, with most major markets in Ontario posting increases compared to the same month last year. As new listings dropped below last year’s numbers and inventory levels hit record lows in many regions, sellers enjoyed watching prices rise! -
Ontario Real Estate
Good ’Hoods: Best Toronto Neighbourhoods for Young Professionals
The largest of Canada’s urban areas, Toronto is tailor-made for the energetic and enterprising. If you’re looking for a neighbourhood to call home, these three downtown districts are attractive targets for young professionals making their debut on the Toronto scene. -
Ontario Real Estate
Toronto’s Urban Exodus: Where GTA Home Buyers are Going
Since the pandemic began, the work-from-home phenomenon has made commute times in and out of the city less of a concern for home buyers. As a result, Torontonians are flocking to find affordable housing in more rural parts of the province – here’s where they’re going. -
Ontario Real Estate
Ontario Real Estate Market Update: December 2020
Despite a year of twists and turns, the Ontario real estate market ended 2020 on a strong note. Compared to December 2019, home sales and prices are up, while inventory continues to edge lower. As buyers continue to take advantage of ultra-low interest rates, markets continue to favour sellers. -
Ontario Real Estate
Good ’Hoods: Top Toronto Neighbourhoods for Families With Kids
In the city of Toronto, you’ll find a variety of smaller neighbourhoods especially attractive to families with kids. Of course, there are some perennial favourites that spring to mind, but we’re featuring three lesser-known options that have a plenty to offer you and your little ones. -
Ontario Real Estate
Ontario Real Estate Market Update: November 2020
Despite decreased sales and new listings since October, prices across most of Ontario’s markets remain steady. Looking at the markets year-over-year , we’re still seeing double-digit price gains and strong buyer demand, making it a great time to sell. -
Ontario Real Estate
Should You Sell Your Home During the Pandemic?
The outbreak of COVID-19 early this spring dealt some staggering blows to Canadian real estate; with declarations of states of emergency and the implementations of lockdown procedures, the industry all but stopped in its tracks. In view of ongoing waves, what should home sellers expect? -
Ontario Real Estate
Ontario Real Estate Market Update: October 2020
The Ontario real estate market remains strong, with October figures breaking numerous records on a year-over-year basis. Homes of all types are in high demand, and tight market conditions are pushing prices higher. -
Ontario Real Estate
Price Growth in the GTA: A Decade in Review
The GTA is notorious in the Canadian real estate market for ever-increasing home prices, causing what’s been described as a “housing bubble.” We’re taking a look at the last decade to see how low supply and fierce buyer demand have been pushing prices upward. -
Ontario Real Estate
Hoping for a fast home sale? Here’s what you need to know
In this age of smart phones and Amazon Prime, we’ve grown accustomed to instant gratification. But, can you sell your home in under 48 hours, especially during the coronavirus lockdowns? We’re looking at what it takes to achieve a quick sale, plus some recent Purplebricks homes that sold fast! -
Ontario Real Estate
Home Sellers in Southwestern Ontario are Saving Thousands in Commission!
The word “SOLD” on your lawn sign is an achievement in itself, but for Purplebricks sellers, it comes with an even bigger payoff: they’re saving thousands in commission! Wondering what success with Purplebricks looks like? Here’s a snapshot of some of our September sales from across the region. -
Ontario Real Estate
Ontario Real Estate Market Update: September 2020
It’s been a month of strong sales activity in all major markets across the province, with year-over year growth ranging from 19-74%. Buyer demand remains high, and with not enough listings in the market to meet demand, prices continue to rise while average days on market declines. -
Ontario Real Estate
Niagara Peninsula Home Sellers are Saving Thousands in Commission (Yes, even during the pandemic!)
This year, home sellers in the Niagara Peninsula have been enjoying excellent selling conditions. High prices and fast sales are the norm, and for Purplebricks sellers, so is saving thousands in commission! Here’s a snapshot of Purplebricks sales across the region. -
Ontario Real Estate
Buying an Investment Property: 5 of Canada’s Top Cities for Rentals
There are a lot of reasons why a rental property can be profitable, but if you’re thinking of making this type of investment, it’s important to look at the local rental market. Like residential real estate, each city or region has a rental market which can be measured with key metrics. -
Ontario Real Estate
Ontario Real Estate Market Update: August 2020
Records continued to be broken in some parts of the province as market activity remained high. Many regions continue to see low inventory levels and homes selling for top dollar. For the second month, most regions have seen a year-over-year average home price increase of 20% or more. -
Ontario Real Estate
City Series: Brampton Home Sellers are Saving Thousands in Commission
With a diverse economy and culture, Brampton is a wonderful place to live, work and play in—and a great place to save thousands in commission when selling your home! -
Ontario Real Estate
Cottage Living, City Convenience: 5 Cottage-like homes in Southern Ontario
Since the COVID-19 outbreak, cottage real estate in Canada has been booming. Here are 5 of our favourite cottage-like homes currently for sale in Southern Ontario. -
Ontario Real Estate
City Series: Brantford Home Sellers are Saving Thousands in Commission
Brantford is a wonderful place to live, work and play in—and a great place to save thousands in commission when selling your home! -
Ontario Real Estate
Ontario Real Estate Market Update: July 2020
July was a record-breaking month in terms of sales activity for many markets in Ontario. Inventory continues to fall short of demand, increasing competition among buyers and leading to multiple bids and price surges. -
Ontario Real Estate
City Series: St. Catharines Home Sellers are Saving Thousands in Commission
St. Catharines, Ontario is the largest city in the Niagara region with plenty to offer its residents and visitors. It's a wonderful place to live, work and play in—and a great place to save thousands in commission when selling your home! -
Ontario Real Estate
7 Ways COVID-19 has Changed Homebuying Behaviour in Ontario
The latest Pulse Check on Consumer Attitudes from the Ontario Real Estate Association and Nanos Research has shed some light on how the COVID-19 pandemic might affect the real estate industry on a long-term basis. -
Ontario Real Estate
City Series: Guelph Home Sellers are Saving Thousands in Commission
Guelph has recently been deemed as the best city to buy real estate in Canada - find out why and check out home sellers in Guelph who saved thousands in commission (even during a pandemic). -
Ontario Real Estate
Ontario Real Estate Market Update: June 2020
In Ontario, we saw a similar story across all major markets – massive improvements in month-over-month home sales with year-over-year average prices up as high as 20%. After dramatic changes in the market in April and May, it is great to see the market is picking up – and quickly. -
Ontario Real Estate
Will Sellers Get Less for Their Home during COVID-19 in Ontario?
Can a seller in Ontario expect to receive less for their home during COVID-19? We take a look at the numbers around two common misconceptions: home prices and average days on market. -
Ontario Real Estate
City Series: London Region Home Sellers are Saving Thousands in Commission
London is a wonderful place to live, work, and play in – and a great place to save thousands in commission when selling your home! -
Ontario Real Estate
City Series: Kitchener-Waterloo Region Home Sellers are Saving Thousands in Commission
We are still seeing our Purplebricks home sellers in the Kitchener-Waterloo-Cambridge region successfully sell their home while saving thousands in commission! These sellers sold their homes in less than a month! -
Ontario Real Estate
City Series: Hamilton Region Home Sellers are Saving Thousands in Commission
Whether you call it The Hammer, Steel City, or perhaps, you already call it “home”, Hamilton is an excellent city to live, work and play in – and a great place to save thousands in commission when selling your home! -
Ontario Real Estate
Real Estate Investing in Ontario During COVID-19: What You Need to Know
Whether you’re new to real estate investing and are ready to purchase your first property (congratulations!) or you’re a seasoned pro looking for the next great find, there are important factors to consider, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. -
Ontario Real Estate
Why Living in Ottawa Should be on your Canadian Bucket List
Ranked as the third best Canadian city to live in 2019 by Maclean’s magazine, living in Ottawa is safe, fun, and, shockingly affordable. -
Ontario Real Estate
14 Reasons Why Windsor is a Great Place to Call Home
And while Windsor is as close to Detroit as a Canadian city could be and it is home to Ford, GM and FCA auto plants, Windsor should be known for more than these two facts. Windsor is a great city to call home, and here’s 14 reasons why. -
Ontario Real Estate
2020 vs 1920: How Homeownership Has Changed in Toronto
We are once again in the “roaring twenties”, so we are looking at how the housing market has changed in the last 100 years in Toronto. In the 1920s, Toronto was only just starting on the path to becoming the vibrant metropolitan area it is today. -
Ontario Real Estate
2020 Forecast: The 5 Best Ontario Cities to Buy a Rental Property
Today, having a “side hustle” is almost mandatory to get an edge up on retirement savings and to gain financial freedom sooner. Amongst the Etsy businesses and Instagram influencers, one of the oldest side hustles has stood the test of time and proven to be lucrative long-term – being a landlord. -
Ontario Real Estate
Ontario’s Top Ranked Communities Have Healthy Real Estate Markets
MacLeans has released its Best Communities in Ontario 2019 List. The top 3 spots go to Burlington, Grimsby and Ottawa. We can see why these communities were a cut above the rest! They have impressive features, including healthy real estate markets.
On December 1, 2021, Purplebricks rebranded to FairSquare Group Realty. Blog articles published before this date were created under the Purplebricks brand but remain the property of FairSquare Group Realty.
In January 2019, ComFree Commonsense Network Brokerage rebranded to Purplebricks.